Celebrating The Boston Terrier 

Did you know that the Boston Terrier used to be one of the country’s top breeds? Fido is still very popular in his home state of Massachusetts, though he’s slipped down through the ranks a bit in other areas. In 2023, the cute pup was listed as 23rd most popular breed out of the 200 the AKC recognized officially at the time. That ranking won’t earn a trophy, but it’s not too shabby, either. There are certainly plenty of reasons to love this cute little dog! A local Burlington, ON vet puts this dashing little pooch in the spotlight below. 

Boston Terrier – Breed Basics

The Boston Terrier is stout, stocky, and utterly adorable. He sports smooth fur with a stylish tuxedo outfit, which can be black, brindle, or seal against white. Fido has a somewhat square head, pointy ears, and a very expressive, cute face. Boston Terriers often have quite expressive eyes, which of course only adds to their charm. 

To look at a few numbers. These guys usually stand about 15 to 17 inches high at the shoulder. They typically live between 11 and 13 years, though it’s not too uncommon for them to make it to 14. As far as weight, the breed standard groups the pups into three classes. The first is for pooches that weigh less than 15 pounds. The next group is for dogs that are between 15 and 20, and the third for pups that are over 20. Fido really shouldn’t weigh more than 25 pounds, though. If your pooch is getting chubby, ask your Burlington, ON vet for tips on keeping him at a healthy weight.

What Is The Breed History Of The Boston Terrier? 

With most breeds, we can get an idea of their lineage based on historical records and/or DNA. With the Boston Terrier, we can actually trace the breed back to a very specific time and place. That would be the Burnett House in Southborough, Mass. The mansion was built in 1847 for chemist Joseph Burnett, who manufactured vanilla extract. Today he’s probably better known for being the founder of the beloved breed. In the 1860s, Joseph’s son Edward bred a white bulldog, Burnett’s Gyp, to Hooper’s Judge, a darker pooch that is thought to have been a cross between the English Bulldog and the now-extinct White English Terrier. This is where things take an extraordinary turn. Though the two dogs only had one puppy, that pup, Eph, became the progenitor of the dapper Boston Terrier.

We mentioned above that Fido was born in Southborough, Mass. However, he became popular in the Beacon Hill area of Boston in the late 1800’s, charming not only socialites but the coachmen who worked for them. In 1891, Fido got his own fan club: The Boston Terrier Club.  Then, in 1893, the Boston Terrier was officially welcomed into the ranks of the AKC’s non-sporting group. The breed now has its own day, which is celebrated on February 

Are Boston Terriers Healthy? 

Though Fido is usually pretty sturdy, there are a few potential health issues owners should be aware of. Eye problems are one concern. Those cute bug eyes do have some risks attached. Because they are so prominent, they can easily be injured. It’s best to check Fido’s eyes daily for redness or inflammation. You may want to screen your canine pal for common canine eye problems, such as cataracts, corneal ulcers, and glaucoma.

Another important point is the fact that Boston Terriers are brachycephalic. Those short, flat faces are cute, but the aesthetics come at a cost. Brachys can lose their breath very quickly. They can overheat very quickly in hot weather, and can also run out of air quite fast when exerting themselves. They are also prone to heart failure. Hip dysplasia and allergies are also not uncommon. 

The National Breed Club recommends Patella Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, and BAER Testing. You’ll of course also need to take your canine buddy to the vet regularly for exams and wellness care. 

How Much Exercise Do Boston Terriers Need? 

This really depends on the pup. Some Boston Terriers are fine with just a few daily walks. Others need to run and play. (Hint: Many of these guys love playing Fetch.) Boston Terriers can and do enjoy some doggy sports, such as agility, obedience, and flyball. However, you will need to be careful not to overdo it. Ask your Burlington, ON vet for tips.

Do Boston Terriers Need A Lot Of Grooming? 

These fashion-forward pups are pretty easy to care for when it comes to grooming. You’ll want to brush Fido about once a week to get rid of dead fur and help distribute his natural oils. However, you won’t have to bathe your canine pal too often. You will need to trim your pup’s claws regularly. Visit your Burlington, ON animal clinic regularly, and get some great advice on your cute pet’s diet and care needs. 

What Is The Boston Terrier’s Temperament? 

The Boston Terrier hails from one of America’s biggest and oldest cities, so it only stands to reason that these pups would be very sociable. Well-mannered and friendly, Fido is the perfect pup to take to a park or cafe, and he usually doesn’t waste time winning people over. These dogs also tend to be great with kids and usually get on well with other pets. That said, training and socialization are key. It’s worth noting that these dogs are very emotional, and can get quite upset if rebuked sternly. Opt for positive reinforcement, and focus on rewarding good behavior. 

Be sure to ask your vet for more information. 

Does The Boston Terrier Have A Nickname?

Fido used to be called a Roundhead, which is rather ironic as the breed actually has a square head shape. The pups have also been referred to as ‘American Gentleman’ due to their formal dress and pleasant mannerisms. 

What Do Boston Terriers Love To Do The Most? 

We can’t exactly poll Fido on this, but if we could we suspect that he would list Fetch and Tug O War as his two favorite activities. These would be followed by begging for treats, going for walks, collecting belly rubs, and just hanging out with their humans. 

What Famous People Have Owned Boston Terriers?

Quite a few celebrities have had Boston Terriers. Helen Keller is one of the most well-known Boston Terrier fans. Her pooch, Sir Thomas, or “Phiz” for short, often accompanied her to Radcliffe College. 

Here are a few other famous fans: 

• President Gerald Ford
• Rose McGowan
• Joe Jonas
• Jake Gyllenhaal
• Robin Williams
• Sonny Rollins
• Norman Reedus
• Joan Rivers
• Danny Trejo
• Tom Hardy
• Josh Trank
• Christy Turlington
• Denise Richards
• Gary Oldman
• Alison Sweeney

Are There Any Famous Boston Terriers?

The most renowned Boston Terrier is most likely Sergeant Stubby, who earned the honor of being called the most decorated war dog of World War I. The pooch traveled to France with the 26th (Yankee) Division, and earned recognition through rather astounding acts of bravery. Over the course of his service, he saved his comrades from mustard gas, comforted the wounded, and even caught a German by the seat of his pants, detaining his prisoner until Americans arrived. He earned a gold medal, a wound strip, and two purple hearts. There’s even an animated movie about him: the 2018 film Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero.

Make An Appointment At Our Burlington, ON Pet Hospital

Does your Boston Terrier need an exam, parasite control, or spay/neuter surgery? Are you looking for a great vet near Burlington, ON? Call us, your local animal clinic, anytime!